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Hallock delays action on proposed 20‑lot subdivision, schedules special meeting
Summary
After public concerns about a potential private purchase of 20 lots, the Hallock City Council approved a waiver to allow shared legal representation but tabled the Subdivision Development and Lot Reservation Agreement and set a special meeting for July 8 to resolve outstanding questions about sequencing, build timelines and contract specifics.
The Hallock City Council on July 1 took the first procedural steps toward a planned multi‑lot development but paused final approval to give councilors more time to review contract details.
Resident Rodney Bakken raised concerns during public comment about reports that a private entity might purchase 20 lots, saying he had heard community questions and that local media coverage left details unclear. Council members responded that the intent behind selling lots is to provide housing rather than generate profit for the city.
Councilor Mike Totleben moved to approve a Waiver of Conflict of Interest and a Scrivener’s Agreement to allow Brink Law Office to represent both the city and the other party; the motion was seconded by Councilor Kevin Waller. Councilor Waller outlined a draft two‑phase Subdivision Development and Lot Reservation Agreement that would require a set number of homes to be built within specified timeframes, with roads constructed as houses are developed. He said Moore Engineering is preparing lot layouts and elevation plans.
Jay Friedt and Robert Carr, who attended previous meetings on the proposal, remained available to answer questions. Councilors said they wanted to clarify contract specifics — including construction sequencing, any performance milestones for the developer, and whether the city would retain any financial exposure — before voting on the full agreement.
Rather than vote, the council agreed to table the subdivision agreement and set a special meeting for July 8 to give staff, the developer’s representatives and councilors additional time to review the paperwork and answer outstanding questions.
Next steps: The council will reconvene on July 8 to continue deliberations; Moore Engineering is expected to supply the site layout and elevation details before that meeting.
